Name: Presto Pesto Panini (with Prosciutto, Provolone & Peppers) Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 1
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 ciabatta roll; 2 slices prosciutto; 1 slice provolone cheese; 2 tbsp pesto sauce; Roasted Red Peppers

The Presto Pesto Panini with Prosciutto, Provolone, and Peppers is a delicious and easy-to-make sandwich that brings together the rich flavors of Italian cuisine in one compact package. It’s a quick lunch or dinner option that offers a satisfying crunch, a balance of savory and tart flavors, and a delightful blend of textures.

presto pesto panini with prosciutto provolone peppers recipe

Photos of Presto Pesto Panini (with Prosciutto, Provolone & Peppers) Recipe

While most of these ingredients are commonly found in most kitchens, you might need to check for a few items. Prosciutto, an Italian dry-cured ham, and provolone, a semi-hard Italian cheese, may not be in your regular grocery list but are integral to this recipe. You can find them in the deli section of most supermarkets. Also, try to find roast red peppers in the canned vegetable aisle.

Presto Pesto Panini Ingredients

Ciabatta roll: A type of Italian white bread made from wheat flour and yeast. It has a crispy crust and chewy texture, perfect for paninis.

Prosciutto: A thinly sliced Italian dry-cured ham that adds a unique, salty flavor to the panini.

Provolone cheese: A semi-hard Italian cheese that provides a creamy, slightly tangy flavor.

Pesto sauce: A savory sauce made from basil, pine nuts, garlic, parmesan, and olive oil. It gives an aromatic and rich depth to the sandwich.

Roasted red peppers: These add a sweet, slightly smoky flavor and vibrant color to the panini.

One reader, Darcey Pickard says:

This pesto panini is a game-changer! The combination of prosciutto, provolone, and pesto is simply divine. The roasted red peppers add a delightful kick. It's a burst of flavors in every bite. I highly recommend trying this recipe - it's a winner!

Darcey Pickard

Techniques Required for Making Presto Pesto Panini

How to assemble the panini: Layer the prosciutto, provolone, pesto, and roasted red peppers on the bottom half of the ciabatta roll, then fold the top half over the fillings.

How to grill the panini: Preheat the panini grill, place the assembled panini on the grill, and cook for about 5 minutes or until the bread is lightly golden and the cheese is melted.

How to serve the panini: Slice the grilled panini horizontally and serve immediately.

How To Make Presto Pesto Panini (with Prosciutto, Provolone & Peppers)

Full of rustic Italian flavors, this pesto panini is a quick & easy dish that you can whip up with 4 ingredients & is perfect for lunch or a light dinner.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 5 minutes

Total: 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1ciabatta roll,individual-sized
2slicesprosciutto
1sliceprovolone cheese
2tbsppesto sauce
roasted red peppers,optional

Instructions

Preheat panini grill.
Slice the ciabatta in half horizontally, and fill with layered prosciutto, provolone, pesto and red peppers.
Fold together and grill for 5 minutes, or until bread is lightly golden and cheese is melted. Slice horizontally and serve.

Nutrition

Calories: 594.86kcal
Fat: 20.65g
Saturated Fat: 7.05g
Monounsaturated Fat: 3.22g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.51g
Carbohydrates: 59.08g
Fiber: 5.22g
Sugar: 4.80g
Protein: 26.49g
Cholesterol: 42.99mg
Sodium: 1927.71mg
Calcium: 271.41mg
Potassium: 191.64mg
Iron: 1.34mg
Vitamin A: 66.08µg

Pro Tip for Perfecting Your Presto Pesto Panini

When preparing your panini, ensure that your provolone cheese is thinly sliced. This will allow it to melt evenly and quickly, ensuring that your sandwich is ready at the same time, with the cheese perfectly melted and gooey. Additionally, spreading the pesto sauce evenly on the bread will ensure every bite is packed with flavor.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Presto Pesto Panini

Prep ahead: Make the pesto and roast the peppers in advance to cut down on prep time when making the panini.

Use store-bought: Consider using store-bought pesto and roasted red peppers to save time without sacrificing flavor.

Multi-task: While grilling the panini, use the time to prepare a simple side salad or another dish to make the most of your time in the kitchen.

Invest in a panini press: Investing in a panini press can save time and make the grilling process more efficient.

Batch cooking: Consider making a larger batch of pesto and roasted red peppers to have on hand for future meals, saving time in the long run.

Substitute Ingredients For Presto Pesto Panini (with Prosciutto, Provolone & Peppers) Recipe

ciabatta roll - Substitute with focaccia bread: Focaccia bread has a similar texture and flavor to ciabatta, making it a great substitute for a panini.
prosciutto - Substitute with serrano ham: Serrano ham has a similar salty and savory flavor to prosciutto, making it a suitable alternative for the panini.
provolone cheese - Substitute with fontina cheese: Fontina cheese has a creamy texture and a mild nutty flavor, which makes it a good substitute for provolone in the panini.
pesto sauce - Substitute with sun-dried tomato pesto: Sun-dried tomato pesto offers a tangy and flavorful alternative to traditional pesto, adding a unique twist to the panini.
roasted red peppers - Substitute with grilled zucchini: Grilled zucchini provides a similar smoky and sweet flavor to roasted red peppers, adding a delicious vegetable element to the panini.

Plating Ideas for a Delectable Presto Pesto Panini

Elevate the ingredients: Use the finest quality prosciutto, provolone cheese, and freshly made pesto sauce to ensure the best flavors and textures in every bite.
Artful arrangement: Carefully layer the prosciutto, provolone, and roasted red peppers to create a visually stunning and appetizing presentation.
Garnish with finesse: Add a sprig of fresh basil or a drizzle of high-quality balsamic glaze to add a touch of elegance and flavor to the dish.
Precision slicing: Cut the panini into perfectly symmetrical portions to showcase the layers of ingredients and create a professional presentation.
Attention to detail: Ensure that the panini is grilled to perfection, with a golden crust and melted cheese, for a visually appealing and enticing dish.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making a Presto Pesto Panini

Panini grill: A kitchen appliance used to grill sandwiches, providing even heat and creating those distinctive grill marks.
Knife: Essential for slicing the ciabatta roll and any other ingredients that may need to be prepped.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for slicing and preparing the ingredients for the panini.
Spatula: Used for flipping the panini on the grill and removing it once it's done.
Plate: To serve the finished panini.

Storing and Freezing Presto Pesto Panini for Later

To store leftover presto pesto panini, wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped sandwiches in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
For best results, reheat the refrigerated panini in a panini press or skillet over medium heat until the bread is crispy and the filling is heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat the panini in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
To freeze the panini, wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Place the wrapped sandwiches in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Label the container with the date and contents. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
When ready to eat, remove the frozen panini from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat the thawed panini in a panini press or skillet over medium heat until the bread is crispy and the filling is heated through. You can also reheat the panini directly from the freezer, but it may take a few extra minutes to heat through.
If you plan to freeze the panini, consider using slightly less pesto sauce and omitting the roasted red peppers. These ingredients may release excess moisture upon thawing, which can make the bread soggy. Instead, add the pesto and peppers when reheating the panini for optimal texture and flavor.

How To Reheat Leftover Presto Pesto Panini

To reheat your leftover presto pesto panini, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the panini in aluminum foil and place it on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the panini is heated through and the cheese is melted. This method helps to retain the crispiness of the ciabatta roll while ensuring the filling is evenly heated.
Alternatively, you can use a panini press or a grill pan to reheat your leftover panini. Preheat the press or pan over medium heat. Place the panini on the preheated surface and press down gently. Heat for 3-5 minutes on each side, or until the bread is crispy and the filling is heated through. This method is ideal if you want to maintain the original texture and appearance of your panini.
If you're short on time, you can also use a microwave to reheat your leftover panini. Place the panini on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for 30-60 seconds, or until the filling is heated through. However, keep in mind that microwaving may cause the bread to become slightly soggy. To counteract this, you can place the microwaved panini under a broiler for a minute or two to crisp up the bread.
For a unique twist, try slicing your leftover panini into smaller pieces and transforming them into a delicious breakfast or brunch dish. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the panini pieces and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are crispy and golden brown. Serve the crispy panini bites with a side of scrambled eggs and fresh tomatoes for a satisfying and flavorful meal.

Interesting Trivia About Presto Pesto Panini

Prosciutto is an Italian dry-cured ham that adds a rich and savory flavor to the panini. It is often thinly sliced and pairs well with the creamy provolone and the zesty pesto sauce.

Is Making Presto Pesto Panini at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this Presto Pesto Panini with Prosciutto, Provolone, and Peppers recipe largely depends on the quality and availability of the ingredients. Prosciutto and provolone can be pricey, but the versatility of the ingredients makes it a worthwhile investment. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $20-$25. The flavorful combination of prosciutto, provolone, and pesto creates a delightful panini experience. The rich, savory flavors are balanced with the sweetness of the roasted red peppers, making it a satisfying meal. Overall Verdict: 8.

Is the Presto Pesto Panini Healthy or Unhealthy?

The presto pesto panini with prosciutto, provolone, and peppers is a delicious combination of flavors, but it may not be the healthiest choice. Here's why:

Prosciutto is high in sodium and saturated fat, which can contribute to high blood pressure and heart disease if consumed in excess.
Provolone cheese is also high in saturated fat and calories, which can lead to weight gain and other health issues.
Pesto sauce is typically made with olive oil, which is a healthy fat, but it can also be high in calories.
Ciabatta bread is made from refined flour, which lacks fiber and nutrients compared to whole grain bread.

However, the roasted red peppers add a nutritious element to the sandwich, providing vitamin C and other antioxidants.

To make this panini healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Use whole grain ciabatta or another type of whole grain bread to increase the fiber content.
Opt for a lower-sodium variety of prosciutto or replace it with a leaner protein like grilled chicken or turkey.
Choose a reduced-fat provolone cheese or a smaller amount of regular provolone to decrease the saturated fat and calorie content.
Make your own pesto sauce using less oil and more fresh basil, which is rich in vitamins and minerals.
Add more roasted vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant, to increase the nutrient density of the sandwich.

Editor's Opinion: Presto Pesto Panini with Prosciutto, Provolone and Peppers

This recipe for a Presto Pesto Panini with Prosciutto, Provolone, and Peppers is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The salty prosciutto, creamy provolone, and flavorful pesto are complemented perfectly by the roasted red peppers. The use of a ciabatta roll adds a rustic touch and provides a wonderful base for the sandwich. Grilling the panini adds a satisfying crunch and brings all the ingredients together. It's a simple yet elegant dish that is sure to impress with its delicious Italian-inspired flavors.

Enhance Your Presto Pesto Panini (with Prosciutto, Provolone & Peppers) Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus in olive oil, garlic, and parmesan cheese, then roast until tender and crispy.

Honey Balsamic Glazed Carrots: Drizzle carrots with a honey balsamic glaze and roast until caramelized and tender.

Grilled Pineapple Slices: Brush pineapple slices with a honey lime marinade and grill until caramelized and juicy.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Presto Pesto Panini

Savory Stuffed Bell Peppers: Create a delicious and hearty meal by stuffing bell peppers with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and seasonings, then baking until tender.

Mango Chicken Salad: Combine juicy mango chunks with grilled chicken, mixed greens, and a tangy vinaigrette for a refreshing and satisfying salad.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Simmer ripe tomatoes, onions, and garlic in a creamy broth, then blend with fresh basil for a comforting and flavorful soup.

Berry Cobbler: Top a medley of fresh berries with a buttery, crumbly topping and bake until golden brown for a delightful and sweet dessert.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Presto Pesto Panini

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. They're the perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Crispy Zucchini Fritters: These crispy zucchini fritters are a delicious way to start your meal. The combination of tender zucchini, savory Parmesan cheese, and a hint of garlic makes for a delightful appetizer that will leave your guests wanting more.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the rich, gooey center of a decadent chocolate lava cake, paired with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of warm and cold textures.

Tiramisu: Transport your taste buds to Italy with a classic tiramisu, featuring layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone cheese, and a dusting of cocoa powder for a touch of bitterness.

Why trust this Presto Pesto Panini (with Prosciutto, Provolone & Peppers) Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a mouthwatering experience with its combination of prosciutto, provolone cheese, and pesto sauce. The flavors are further enhanced by the addition of roasted red peppers, creating a harmonious blend of savory and tangy notes. The use of a ciabatta roll ensures a perfect texture, while grilling it to golden perfection adds a delightful crunch. Trust in the quality of the ingredients, including the authentic prosciutto and flavorful pesto sauce, to elevate your panini game.

Share your thoughts on this Presto Pesto Panini (with Prosciutto, Provolone & Peppers) recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to suggest!

FAQ:

What type of bread can I use for this panini?

You can use any type of bread you prefer, but ciabatta or focaccia work best for this recipe.

Can I make this recipe without prosciutto?

Absolutely! You can substitute prosciutto with turkey, ham, or even leave it out for a vegetarian option.

How can I make the pesto sauce from scratch?

To make pesto sauce from scratch, blend together fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil until smooth.

Can I use a regular grill instead of a panini press?

Yes, you can use a regular grill or a skillet to make this panini. Just press it down with a spatula while grilling.

Can I prepare the panini in advance and reheat it later?

It's best to prepare the panini fresh, but you can assemble the ingredients in advance and grill it when you're ready to eat for the best taste and texture.